WNC Home & Garden by IWANNA USA

SPRING 2015

for ﬂea market ﬁnds

HOME RENOVATION PROJECTS

LUS H L AW N I N 4 ST E P S DI Y HOM E U PK E E P

SS NO FU s, , ﬂower s b r e h grow ies & vegg

G R A NIT E A LT E R NAT I V E S PA I NT COLOR & MO OD

A Publication of

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publisher Vincent Grassia assistant General manaGer Patricia M. Betts production manaGer Lisa Gallagher creative director Adalee Elkins production Carrie Harder, Debi Manfre, David Denton, Randy Whittington, Kim Anderson advertisinG consultants Meg Hale, Kimberly White, Roberta Lloyd, Pam Hensley, Rick Jenkins sales assistant Jayme Pressley distribution manaGer Mark Graham Website development Dan Jaworsky A Publication of

22 GARFIELD STREET, SuITE 100 ASHEVILLE, NC 28813 828.274.8888 IWANNA.COM WNC Home & Garden, a publication of IWANNA, has accepted contributions which may not reﬂect the opinion of the publisher. No portion of WNC Home & Garden may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

cover designed by adalee elkins

first look 5| 6| 8| 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 22 |

Dos and Don’ts of Backyard Firepits 7 Renovations that Add Value Granite Countertop Alternatives Lush Lawn in 4 Easy Steps Perfect State of Organization Relationship Between Paint & Mood No Fuss Gardening New Life for Flea Market Finds DIY Home Upkeep Local Events Calendar IWANNA SPRING 2015

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home improvement

the dos and don’ts of A firepit can turn a boring backyard into a relaxing retreat. But homeowners must adhere to the following tips to ensure their retreat is something they can enjoy for years to come.

do don’t

confirm with your local government planning or zoning offices if you can build a fire pit and if any restrictions apply. proceed with the project until you have been granted official approval. Starting early could result in fines. Wait until you get official word before you proceed with the project.

build on flat ground to reduce risk of accident and/or injury. If the ground around the pit is not flat, some people may be forced to sit crooked or lean forward just to enjoy the pit.

don’t

build near flammable structures. Build the fire pit far enough away from existing structures, such as your home, garage or shed, so flickering flames do not catch some wind and lead to disaster.

choose the right size. The size of your fire pit will depend on the space you have available, but even if you have a vast swath of space, keep in mind that professional contractors typically recommend building a fire pit no bigger than 44 inches wide. Anything larger can be unsightly and may not appeal to prospective buyers down the road. In addition, it may result in potentially unruly flames that can present a fire hazard.

don’t

go it alone if your DIY skills are suspect. Ground needs to be excavated and the slope of the yard must be measured so the fire pit is safe and functional for years to come. Hire a professional contractor so your backyard oasis does not become a costly headache. by metro creative connection

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home improvement

add value to your home with these renovations Certain projects have a history of providing a greater return on homeowners’ investments than others. The following renovation tips can add beauty to your home and generate great returns when you put the home up for sale.

➊ invest in your kitchen

Kitchen remodels are a safe bet when it comes to putting money into improving a home. It’s possible to recoup between 60 and 120 percent of your kitchen remodel investment, especially if the kitchen matches up well with the rest of your home. Homeowners should know that a deluxe renovation may not be necessary, as relatively moderate improvements can create a whole new look for a kitchen.

➋ look to paint

One of the least expensive improvement materials, but one that has a significant impact, is paint. Neutral, modern colors can easily liven up any space. If you paint with low-VOC paint, you can also advertise an eco-friendly home, which is very desireable these days.

➌ put in another bathroom

Multiple bathrooms are an attractive selling point, particularly in older

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homes that may not have been equipped with more than one bathroom. Finding extra space for a bathroom can be tricky, but consider closets, areas under stairs or even taking some space away from another room. Popular homeimprovement television channel HGTV advises that half-bathrooms require at least 18 square feet of space, while full baths need 30 to 35 square feet for a stand-up shower or bathtub.

➍ Renovate the HVAC system

Aesthetic improvements aren’t the only ones that add value to a home. Many home buyers are eager to purchase a home that has a new heating and cooling system, as buyers understand that furnaces and air conditioning units are substantial investments that can last for years. Other improvements, such as adding attic insulation or replacing older windows and doors with more energy efficient options, also are smart bets.

➏ put a deck addition outdoors

Outdoor living spaces have become more desireable, especially as the “staycation” has grown in popularity. Decks and patios can make backyards more appealing. The scope of your investment will depend on the size of the deck and design. Doing the work yourself can cut the cost of decks in half, but only if you have the specific tools or experience to tackle such a project.

➐ Improve curb appeal Worthwhile Investment Certain projects have a history of providing a greater return on homeowners’ investments than others.

➎ Add illumination to rooms

A dark home is a dreary home. Adding light can mean including more overhead and accent lighting. Under-cabinet task lighting is a nice touch. Inclusion of skylights and sun tubes can bring natural light into rooms that may not have southor west-facing windows.

Adding attractive landscaping and freshening up the entryway to a home can add considerable value to your home, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors. Completely renovated interiors may never be seen if buyers pass up your home because of a less attractive exterior. Classy, subtle changes, like well-placed shrubbery and a green lawn, can work wonders. An inviting front door and well-lit entryway also add curb appeal to a home. by metro creative connection

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home improvement

explore the alternatives to While granite is a popular countertop material, homeowners who want something new have many additional options at their disposal.

➊ solid Wood Wood countertops create a warm, homey interior. Butcher block counters are less expensive than granite and do not necessarily need to be ordered from a speciality retailer. But wood can stain and dent and can even burn when hot kitchenware is placed atop it. Regular application of oil can help homeowners maintain the appearance of their wood counters for years to come. ➋ marble

Marble tends to be less expensive than granite without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. However, marble is softer and more porous than granite, so it can stain and be etched. Diligence in wiping away spills, routine sealing and a gentle touch is necessary for those who choose marble countertops.

➌ soapstone This is a natural stone composed mainly of mineral talc that gives the stone its smooth feel. Soapstone ranges from black to gray but can sometimes have a green shade to it. Although softer than granite, soapstone is still high-density and will hold up well. It’s impervious to stains and bacteria, and exposure to chemicals will not damage it.

➍ Quartz Quartz is a manufactured product made of stone aggregate and polymers compressed under high pressure. It has the look of natural stone but requires less work to maintain. Quartz has consistent colors and patterns and is a nonporous material, so it will not need routine sealing and resealing. ➎ Glass Glass countertops are back-painted, so homeowners can order just about any color they want. Glass will be tempered, so it is safe and heat-resistant. Glass can scratch, though, so it is not as impervious as other materials.

➏ concrete Concrete is another material that can be colored

to match homeowners’ whims. Concrete is relatively inexpensive compared to other countertop materials, but it can crack or chip.

BY metro creative connection 8

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in the yard

a lush lawn in 4 easy steps Want to get the best out of your lawn this year? Implement these simple hacks to keep your lawn green and growing, your equipment up and running, and your yard looking great:

➊ Feed your lawn. In order to maintain a healthy lawn, you should fertilize twice a year. Start the process one month after the lawn starts growing in the spring, and one month before the lawn goes dormant in the fall. Spring fertilization is imperative, as it replenishes nutrient reserves that have been used up during the first growth spurt of the season. Avoid “burning” the lawn by only fertilizing at the recommended rate and ratio for your lawn. Check with the experts at your local lawn care supply store to choose the correct dose. ➋ Perform mower checkups. A

properly running mower is essential to keeping your lawn looking great. Make sure it’s ready for every mow by incorporating these maintenance tips into your routine: Change your mower oil. This should be done every 25 hours of use for a walk-behind mower, which is once a year for most users. For a lawn tractor, change the oil every 50 hours. Keep your mower clean. Brush away grass clippings from the cooling fans and keep air intake screens clear so air can pass through. Make sure that all safety shields are in place to protect you and your family. Sharpen your blade. A dull blade will split grass blades, leaving them susceptible to disease. Sharpen the blade to about one sixty-fourth of an inch for a clean cut. Also, be sure the blade is balanced to ensure an even cut.

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➌ Mulch instead of bag.

Mulching while you mow leaves a thin layer of grass clippings on the lawn. These clippings gradually break down to provide additional nitrogen to the lawn. This provides a natural fertilizer throughout the mowing season. Look for mowers with specifically designed mulching mower decks and blades that cut clippings into tiny pieces, returning them to the turf. A riding mower, like the John Deere S240 Sport allows you to choose if you want to mulch, side-discharge or bag clippings without the need for additional tools.

➍ Do more with your mower.

You can now do more than ever with your tractor by adding implements to help complete yard tasks more quickly, and enjoy some rest and relaxation on the weekend. Use utility carts for hauling, spreaders for applying fertilizer, aerators to renew the soil, or even a snowblower attachment to remove the snow from your driveway. From mulching to mowing to feeding, keeping your lawn green and growing requires a little strategic care, but the reward is as sweet as the smell of fresh cut grass. For more ideas and equipment to get your yard in shape, visit JohnDeere.com/Residential. Source: John Deere

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for the home

your perfect state of

Get organized with products such as ClosetMaid’s SuiteSymphony in Espresso, Mini Off-set Organizer and Activity Table.

ife gets busy and clutter has a way of sneaking up on everyone. It may be all those shoes, the lack of space or the fact that you have absolutely no time there are many reasons for the mess. But, whether you’re a single person living in an apartment or have a large family in a sprawling house, everyone can benefit from more organization. By simply thinking about storage differently and coming up with a smart organizational 12

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system that works for you, you’ll be on the way to creating a wellbalanced, happier home. For many, just the thought of starting the de-cluttering and organizing process is daunting,” said Lisa Engel, VP and General Manager Digital Commerce, ClosetMaid. “By breaking it down - room by room, or need by need, the process can actually become rejuvenating. You’re literally creating an easier life for yourself.”

Life gets busy and clutter has a way of sneaking up on everyone starting the process If you’re just beginning, remember: baby steps. Focus on one small area or room - or even your junk drawer. Don’t get overwhelmed by the big picture as that’s when frustration mounts, causing you to walk away in disgust. Be sure to finish the project you’ve begun. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and be encouraged to tackle subsequent rooms and projects.

already started Stuck midway through an organizational project and need some inspiration to finish? Don’t be afraid to utilize online resources. ClosetMaid’s idea galleries, design tools and online store can help provide affordable and stylish solutions. Thinking of your project as a mini-makeover can help make it more exciting and less of a chore. Try taking pictures along the way, documenting your progress can really be rewarding.

already organized If your home is already organized, you know that keeping clutter at bay is a full-time job. Be sure to keep a watchful eye on areas that naturally accumulate clutter, such as entryways and child play areas. If you do have children, get them involved in the organization process by teaching them where items belong and how to store them. By labeling storage bins, baskets or drawers, your kids will always be able to help your home stay organized and clean. “If you think like an organized person, soon you will be one,” said Lorie Marrero, certified professional organizer and author of the “Clutter Diet.” “It all starts with your state of mind.” To find your perfect state of organization visit ClosetMaid.com, StorganizationBlog.com or call 1-800-8740008. Source: ClosetMaid IWANNA SPRING 2015

for the home

the relationship between Finding the right shade for a bedroom or kitchen involves more than just selecting the first color that catches your eye. Design experts and psychologists alike say it may be worthwhile to choose a color that helps you feel good rather than just following design trends.

blue To create a spa-like environment and a more and a more serene space, look to shades of blue in soft variations. Cool blues are soothing colors that can help lower stress levels and promote sleep. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why blue is a frequent fixture in bedrooms and bathrooms. Just be advised that too much blue can make a room appear cold and stark, so balance out blue with some warmer accents.

orange When used as an accent shade, orange can really brighten up a home. Orange is considered a shade that expands creativity and imparts a youthful appeal to a space. Consider an orange accent wall or a burst of color with orange throw pillows. If pumpkin orange is a little too bold for you, tone it down by choosing a more pastel, peachy hue, which is equally warm and energizing.

yellow Vibrant yellow can help stimulate conversation and make thoughts more focused. A luminous shade of yellow is an ideal way to make any space more welcoming and bright. Just use it sparingly, as too much yellow may not be a good thing. Yellow accents mixed with touches of purple can offer the balance needed to prevent yellow rooms from becoming overwhelming. 14

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red Red stimulates energy and appetite, which is why the shade is so popular in restaurants and home dining spaces. Red is a good choice for social gathering rooms but may not be the wisest choice for a bedroom, as the color may prove overstimulating.

purple People have long related purple to royalty, and this dramatic color can add a formal, regal aspect to a home depending on the hue. Purple also may help stimulate the creative side of the brain. In paler shades of lavender, purple can seem almost ethereal and spiritual. Some designers suggest avoiding purple in a bedroom because that is a place you want your brain to rest rather than be stimulated.

green Green can evoke composure and tranquility and works in any room of the house. Since green is the primary color of nature, it also works well for those people who want to bring some of the outdoors inside and work with the fresh starts and new growth that green can inspire. To make green feel less subdued and sleepy, work with its complementary opposite, red, by using a few bold red accents here and there.

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in the yard

gardening Even those without green thumbs can grow beautiful herbs, flowers, and veggies without the hassle!

Herbs aren’t too picky, therefore they can grow well in shared pots which saves money and space! The only catch is to make sure the herbs you’re potting together are compatible with each other, meaning they prefer either a drier or a more moist soil. Terra cotta pots are great for herbs since the walls are naturally porous, allowing air and water to travel through the sides. Here are some herbal combos to try out: basil and parsley — both love water rosemary, saGe, and/or oreGano — all three do well in a drier soil chamomile and thyme — both prefer full sun.

Potted flowers are perfect if you enjoy a fresh bouquet in your house regularly. annuals are best for potted flower arrangements since they are in bloom throughout the season. Try nemesia, zinnias, rudbeckia, or pansies. buy some seedlinGs - they are slightly more developed plants and will give you quicker blooming results. any pot is Fine, just make sure it retains moisture well, ensuring your pretty flowers never go thirsty. cut your blooms FreQuently — this maintains steady blossoming!

Don’t feel overwhelmed with the idea of growing some fresh produce for your dinner table. Potted tomatoes, romaine lettuce, and even peppers can really thrive if you just give them a little bit of love and sun. the type oF container is pretty important, as vegetables’ roots need the ability to run deep, so try some galvanized metal buckets or tubs (be sure to drill holes on the bottom for good drainage). Since potted veggies only allow a certain amount of space, look For plant varieties that are naturally smaller. Look for words like “dwarf,” “baby,” or “patio” in their plant names. For tall plants like tomatoes, use stakes immediately to make sure they grow efficiently with room to grow even more! Water on a reGular basis, and harvest your veggies regularly so plants don’t go to seed. 16

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home improvement

for ﬂea market ﬁnds Restore, refinish, repurpose: You can give used furniture new life with some imagination and a little bit of elbow grease. From turning a discarded door into a stately headboard to making a coffee table out of a wooden pallet, the possibilities are endless when you do it yourself. Your local flea market, or even your own attic, is a great place to start. Keep an open mind during your search for the perfect piece, and remember that even the dingiest furniture can be easily transformed with the right tools. To help, wood finishing expert Bruce Johnson offers these tips:

➊ check the wood for excessive

dryness or splintering. A light sanding and dust removal will prepare the piece for refinishing.

➋ For beautiful results in a

short amount of time, choose a one-step product such as

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PolyShades—it’s a rich stain color and clear protective finish, all in one. It can be used on bare wood or over an existing polyurethane finish.

➌ let the first coat dry

completely before applying additional coats.

➍ For quick and easy touch-

ups of nicks and scratches, use Minwax Stain Markers in a color that matches your wood. Follow with Minwax Paste Wax for a hand-rubbed finish. By following these simple tips and keeping in mind the three R’s, you can give your home a distinctive look that is full of personality. Best of all, you will be able to say “I did that!” Learn more at minwax.com. Source: naps

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home improvement

a seasonal guide to maintaining your home Homeowners can avoid emergency repairs by completing a few home projects each season. From spring to winter, these maintenance tips will help homeowners save money and time in the long run.

Spring ■ Plumbing. Every spring inspect all plumbing for leaks. Small problems, like leaky faucets and clogged drains can turn into big headaches if left unchecked. The average national cost of hiring a plumber to repair pipes is $411; however, repairing water damage can cost seven times that amount. ■ Roof. Checking for damage and making general repairs in the springtime can extend the lifespan of a roof. Neglecting to make these minor fixes can lead to long-term damage. The average cost of replacing and installing a new roof is $7,744.

Summer ■ Trees and shrubs. The average cost of trimming trees and shrubs is $577, but leaving them untrimmed can lead to roof damage. The average cost of repairing a roof is $1,100. ■ Paint. In the summer, touching up the home’s exterior paint not only boosts its curb appeal, but it also acts as a home’s primary defense against weather, insects and other damage. If a homeowner neglects to complete this task, completely repainting the home’s exterior costs an average of $3,180.

Fall ■ Gutter and downspouts. During the fall, clean the gutter and downspouts. According to HomeAdvisor’s Cost Guide, the average cost of cleaning the gutter and downspout is $212. Ignoring this matter can affect the foundation of a home, which can cost an average of $4,607 to repair. ■ Windows and doors. Install weather stripping during the fall for an average cost of $458. This will prevent unwanted air from leaking into a home. On average, homeowners spend 40 percent more on heating and air conditioning due to drafty windows and doors. 20

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Winter ■ Refrigerator. Vacuum the coils on the back of the fridge during the winter. Letting the coils build up with dirt and grime can decrease its efficiency, and can cost $317 to repair. ■ Furnace. In the winter, service the furnance to make sure it is operating properly, safely and to its fullest capability.

Tips for every season ■ Garbage Disposal. Flush the garbage disposal every season. Regularly doing this will keep your disposal clean and functioning properly. The average cost of repairing a clogged drain is $381. ■ Smoke detectors. Be a responsible homeowner and test the smoke detectors seasonally. Smoke detectors are the single most important step to ensuring home safety, and having one during a fire increases the likelihood of survival by more than 50 percent. For more information, visit homeadvisor.com/cost. Source: HomeAdvisor

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local events Asheville’s Build & Remodel Expo 10am-6pm Feb. 28 & 12pm-5pm March 1, WNC Ag Center This two day packed event offers over 100 of the area’s leading professionals showcasing products and services for home building and remodeling, live how-to demonstrations, a dedicated section for landscaping and outdoor living space and so much more. Admission is $10 per person. FREE Parking. buildandremodelasheville.com

WNC Home, Garden, & Green Living Show

March 20-22, US Cellular Center Downtown Asheville The WNC Home, Garden and Green Living Show will feature products and services for the home, garden and an eco-friendly lifestyle. homegardenandgreenlivingshow.com

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Organic Growers School Conference

9am to 5:30 pm, March 7-8, UNCA, Asheville Practical, regionally-appropriate workshops on organic growing, permaculture, homesteading, urban farming, and rural living plus a trade show, seed exchange, silent auction, children’s program, and pre-conference, on-farm events. organicgrowersschool.org

Biltmore Blooms

March 20-May 25, Biltmore Estate This festival of flowers celebrates two months of spring blooms that include 90,000+ tulips and elaborate floral displays. To learn more, visit biltmore.com/events.

WNC Orchid Society Annual Show

10am-5pm March 28-29, NC Arboretum 2015 theme: “Orchid Shangri-La.” Includes orchid exhibits, vendors, educational programs and raffle prizes. ncarboretum.org

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